The Blackhawks forward is back in Chicago while his European team takes a break, and Kane hopes the NHL lockout is settled in time to prevent a return trip.

"It would be nice not to have to go back Sunday and just … stay here and get ready for a training camp," Kane said Wednesday after an informal practice at Johnny's IceHouse West. "Right now, I'm scheduled to go back. It's something you don't want to do; you want (the lockout) to be over and done with. It's an experience I'll never forget, but life is much better here in the States and in Chicago."

Kane has seven goals and eight assists in 14 games with HC Biel in the Swiss National League A, taking advantage of the larger ice surface to showcase his offensive talent and get in shape for a possible NHL season.

"I played 14 games," Kane said. "That's been enough for me to get ready for a season over here. Especially with a week training camp, I'll feel even more ready. I'm happy I did it, but now it's time to play in the NHL and get going over here."

The roller-coaster negotiations between the NHL and the players association — which resumed Wednesday — have had Kane poised to return at a moment's notice.

"I was getting texts from teammates last week … telling me that I was going to be coming home and 'pack your bags,' " Kane said. "I'm not really going to speculate anymore until somebody tells me directly that it's done."

Until then, Kane plans to play in Europe, including joining HC Davos for the Spengler Cup tournament that runs from Christmas Day to New Year's Day in Switzerland. While he has enjoyed playing overseas, the 24-year-old prefers the comforts of the NHL.

"You don't realize how good you have it over here in Chicago with the training staff and equipment managers," Kane said. "You're taken care of so well that you take it for granted.

"It's definitely a little bit different over there with things like packing up your own bag and putting it on the bus and then taking a three-hour bus ride to a game and having to play as soon as you get off the bus. (But) it's been a good experience."

Hossa cleared: The Hawks have cleared winger Marian Hossa to play after his recovery from a concussion, a source said. Hossa was injured during a playoff game in April when the Coyotes' Raffi Torres illegally checked him.

Hossa had been working out with Hawks personnel in Chicago during the lockout but has been spending time in Florida and practicing with players there, including former Hawks teammate Brian Campbell.